"The Notorious Byrd Brothers" is the fifth studio album by the American rock band, The Byrds. Released in January 1968, it represents the pinnacle of their future-facing psychedelic sound. The album was produced by Gary Usher at Columbia Studios, Hollywood, and is noted for its innovative use of electronic effects and experiments with country rock and baroque pop.
The recording sessions for the album were wrought with tension, culminating in the departure of members David Crosby and Michael Clarke. Therefore, it is the only Byrds album that features all five original band members. Notwithstanding these issues, the album is recognized for its seamless integration of a wide array of musical styles and the use of innovative production techniques.
The album contains a mix of original songs and covers, including the Bob Dylan song 'You Ain't Going Nowhere'. It delivered some classic Byrd hits such as 'Goin' Back' and 'Wasn't Born to Follow'. "The Notorious Byrd Brothers" is critically acclaimed and is often cited as the band’s best work alongside 'Mr. Tambourine Man' and 'Younger Than Yesterday'.
"The Notorious Byrd Brothers" reached number 47 on the Billboard Top LPs chart and number 12 in the UK Album Chart. Despite not being a commercial success at the time, in retrospect it is considered one of the greatest rock albums ever made and a precursor to the country-rock and soft rock of the coming decades. It stands as a testament to The Byrds' defiant resilience and their daring sense of creativity and invention.
